“…all in all an inspired ensemble so obviously playing for joy”

Martin Simpson

From deep roots in their hometown’s vibrant music, song and dance scene, to smashing concert appearances in the UK and abroad, Sheffield-based Melrose Quartet have attracted a reputation for making music that truly connects with people. All four are internationally renowned singers, instrumentalists, writer/composers and teachers and in 2017 they were proud to be named the new patrons of Whitby Folk week.

Their latest album Dominion expands and strengthens the musical presence they first asserted with “Fifty Verses”, their 2014 BBC Folk Award-nominated debut CD.

In concert, Melrose Quartet perform a diverse repertoire – carousing chorus songs, lively dance tunes, ancient stories and modern pieces written in celebration of everything from weddings & birthdays to issues that affect all of our 21st century lives. This is music for everybody.

Melrose Quartet are known for their outstanding workshops ranging from harmony singing to accompaniment, and they also can offer The Melrose Ceilidh Band, with the addition of Nigel Holmes on Bass. This is a ceilidh with a difference, as the band use voices as well as instruments for the dance music, to great effect.

Bouzouki wizard, multi-instrumentalist and singer of traditional and contemporary songs especially from his native Australia. He has toured internationally with Nancy Kerr, Cara Dillon, Bellowhead, Glorystrokes and most recently his new duo The James Brothers.

Jess Arrowsmith (voice, fiddle)

Singer and fiddler Jess performs with husband Richard as a duo, in ceilidh band Hekety, and in new transatlantic trio Arrowsmith : Robb with Ian Robb of Ottawa, having formerly sung, played and toured internationally with Crucible.

Richard Arrowsmith (voice, melodeons)

Box virtuoso and bass singer of great warmth and depth, Richard is recognised as one of the finest players of traditional dance music on the scene. Alongside his work with Jess in duo, trio and full band form (Arrowsmith : Robb, Hekety, Crucible) he is also principle musician for morris side Pecsaetan, and a founder member of metal/ceilidh band Glorystrokes.